Japanese business counts the cost of aid projects

JAPAN's most powerful corporations have joined the wave of concern over environmental damage done by projects paid for with Japanese aid. The Japanese overseas aid budget, which is already the largest in the world, is likely to rise by a further 10 per cent next year, bringing the total to almost 900 billion yen (about Pounds sterling 3 billion). However, the solutions that the corporations have suggested for reducing the damage are very different from those proposed by environmental groups.

The organisation that represents Japan's largest corporations, the Keidanren, sees environmental concern as a commercial opportunity. In a report published last week the Keidanren said: 'Japan has a great stock of pollution-prevention technology. In carrying out cooperation projects, Japan should positively offer cooperation to aid recipients without waiting to be requested. A balanced approach to environmental issues must be taken in consultation with other developed nations and international organisations.'

The ...

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